Annual siren test
Every year, on the first Wednesday in February, Switzerland conducts a nationwide siren test. This checks the readiness not only of the general alarm sirens, but also of the flood alarm system. People are informed in advance via radio and TV announcements and press releases. The public is not required to take any action or protective measures and is kindly asked to excuse any inconvenience caused by the siren test.
The general alarm is sounded across Switzerland at 1.30pm. The signal is a continuous tone that rises and then falls, lasting one minute. Where necessary, the siren test may continue until 2pm. From 2pm to no later than 4.30pm the flood alarm is tested in areas at risk below dams. It consists of twelve low continuous tones, each lasting 20 seconds, with 10-second intervals between them. Around 7,200 stationary and mobile sirens are tested to ensure they are functioning properly.
How to respond in the event of an alarm
If the general alarm sounds outside of the scheduled test, it means that there is a potential risk to the population. In this case, you should listen to the radio, check the Alertswiss channels, follow the instructions issued by the authorities and inform your neighbours. A flood alarm means you must leave the endangered area immediately. More information and safety instructions are available at www.alert.swiss and on Teletext, page 680.
Alertswiss: the direct line between the authorities and the public
We recommend installing the Alertswiss app on your smartphone. It is free to download for Android and iOS devices from the Google Play Store or the Apple App Store. For more information, visit www.alert.swiss.